Labeling hazardous materials accurately and consistently is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a vital safety practice. Whether you’re dealing with adhesives, solvents, treated wood products, or other chemical-based building materials, proper labeling ensures compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
Thankfully, technology has evolved to make this process more reliable, streamlined, and integrated. Here’s a look at the top tools helping businesses in the building materials industry improve hazardous material labeling and reduce compliance risks.
- Label Design Software
Modern labeling software enables businesses to create and manage GHS-compliant labels with ease. These tools typically include:
Pre-built templates that meet OSHA and EPA standards
Auto-populated fields for hazard statements, pictograms, and precautionary information
Multilingual label options for global distribution
Examples: BarTender, Loftware NiceLabel, Label Matrix
These platforms reduce the chance of human error and keep formatting consistent across all product lines.
- Integrated ERP and Inventory Systems
Linking your labeling process with your ERP or inventory management system ensures that hazardous material data is always current and accurate. Integration allows:
Real-time updates to chemical compositions and safety data
Automatic label generation as part of inventory and shipping workflows
Centralized control over label versions and compliance documentation
This is especially valuable in dynamic warehouse environments where products are moved, re-packaged, or transferred between locations.
- Digital Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Management Tools
SDS databases are the foundation for compliant labeling. Digital SDS platforms help you:
Store, update, and retrieve SDSs instantly
Automatically extract required labeling elements (e.g., signal words, hazard classes)
Link SDS content directly to your label printing process
Examples: SDSpro, VelocityEHS, Chemwatch
These systems eliminate the need for manual SDS lookups and reduce mislabeling risks due to outdated information.
- Mobile Labeling Applications
On-the-go labeling apps are perfect for field teams, remote warehouses, or mobile units. These tools:
Allow users to scan barcodes or QR codes and print labels instantly
Access cloud-based databases for real-time hazard classification
Support portable printers for labeling directly at the point of use
Mobile labeling solutions are ideal for operations with decentralized workstations or high turnover inventory.
- Cloud-Based Label Management Systems
Cloud platforms make it easier to manage labeling across multiple locations. With cloud-based tools, you can:
Standardize labels for all hazardous materials, no matter the site
Grant access to approved templates and content libraries
Push updates instantly to every facility or department
This eliminates version control issues and helps multi-site operations stay aligned with a single source of truth.
- Labeling Compliance Auditing Tools
Some software platforms offer auditing features that ensure your labels stay compliant. These tools can:
Flag missing or outdated information
Track changes and approval history
Provide audit logs and inspection-ready reports
Being able to quickly show documentation and traceability during an OSHA or EPA inspection is a major advantage.
- Smart Printers and Industrial Labeling Hardware
Today’s industrial label printers aren’t just hardware—they’re smart devices. When paired with software, they can:
Automatically adjust print formats to meet GHS size and symbol requirements
Print on durable, chemical-resistant label stock
Work seamlessly with scanners, mobile devices, and inventory systems
Look for printers with built-in error detection and wireless capabilities for maximum efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Keeping up with hazardous material labeling requirements can be a challenge—but technology makes it easier, more accurate, and more scalable. Whether you’re labeling products on a production line or updating stock in a distribution center, investing in the right tools helps protect your workers, streamline operations, and keep your business fully compliant.
In a fast-moving industry like building materials, the right tech isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
